John Estes Spaceflight Memorial
Donation protected
John Estes, our loving and kind husband, uncle and brother, passed away on Monday, July 30th. John's death was self-inflicted. Unfortunately, there were no warning signs and we'll never know the answer to "Why?". He is survived by his wife, our cherished aunt and sister, Chris Estes.
During this time, we are reminded of human fragility. Suicide is a major public health issue. According to the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention, 44,965 Americans take their own life each year, and the societal stigma associated with talking about suicide will only make it worse. It is important to Chris that we are comfortable talking about John's story in hopes that it will bring awareness to the reality of suicide.
This is the last photo we have of John. It was taken 2 days before he took his life. It's a familiar sight to all who knew him - a shining smile, stretched ear to ear. But the tragedy of suicide is indiscriminate, and we're devastated to share that John's smile is now among the many faces of suicide.
If you’re struggling, take the time you need today for self-care and reach out to someone you trust. Help is available, and you are not alone. Please call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK.
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"I'll put him amongst his Starshine. For he was, my StarMan." - Chris
Many of you know that John was a space dreamer, so we are sending him to space! We are raising funds to support Chris and her mission to celebrate John's life in her most perfect way - a Memorial Spaceflight for John. His ashes will orbit space until he re-enters the atmosphere as a shooting star. If it isn't obvious, John will absolutely love this! For Chris, it is a fitting final tribute to her husband of 30 years.
John also passionately loved nature and helping people. Heifer is an organization that works with communities around the world to end world hunger and poverty, and their mission encompasses what John cared for.
However you choose to remember John, it will be perfect. Thank you for considering to donate to any of the causes we shared above. We greatly appreciate any support for Chris during this difficult and painful time and beyond. Chris will be in charge of all the funds raised here and they will go to covering the costs of John's spaceflight memorial.
With love and gratitude,
The Millers
During this time, we are reminded of human fragility. Suicide is a major public health issue. According to the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention, 44,965 Americans take their own life each year, and the societal stigma associated with talking about suicide will only make it worse. It is important to Chris that we are comfortable talking about John's story in hopes that it will bring awareness to the reality of suicide.
This is the last photo we have of John. It was taken 2 days before he took his life. It's a familiar sight to all who knew him - a shining smile, stretched ear to ear. But the tragedy of suicide is indiscriminate, and we're devastated to share that John's smile is now among the many faces of suicide.
If you’re struggling, take the time you need today for self-care and reach out to someone you trust. Help is available, and you are not alone. Please call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK.
~~~~~~
"I'll put him amongst his Starshine. For he was, my StarMan." - Chris
Many of you know that John was a space dreamer, so we are sending him to space! We are raising funds to support Chris and her mission to celebrate John's life in her most perfect way - a Memorial Spaceflight for John. His ashes will orbit space until he re-enters the atmosphere as a shooting star. If it isn't obvious, John will absolutely love this! For Chris, it is a fitting final tribute to her husband of 30 years.
John also passionately loved nature and helping people. Heifer is an organization that works with communities around the world to end world hunger and poverty, and their mission encompasses what John cared for.
However you choose to remember John, it will be perfect. Thank you for considering to donate to any of the causes we shared above. We greatly appreciate any support for Chris during this difficult and painful time and beyond. Chris will be in charge of all the funds raised here and they will go to covering the costs of John's spaceflight memorial.
With love and gratitude,
The Millers
Organizer
Megan Miller
Organizer
San Francisco, CA